25 Instructional Designer Interview Questions and Answers

Instructional designers are in high demand in today’s economy. They are the professionals who develop instructional materials for both online and offline courses. They work with educators to determine the goals of a course and then create a curriculum that will help students achieve those goals. They also design tests and other assessment tools to ensure that students are learning what they are supposed to learn.

If you want to work as an instructional designer, you will need to be able to answer interview questions that assess your skills in this area. In this article, we will provide you with a list of common interview questions for instructional designers and suggest some possible answers.

1. Are you familiar with the concept of instructional design?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to gauge your knowledge of instructional design and how it relates to their organization. If you are not familiar with this concept, consider asking the interviewer to explain what it means before answering.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with the concept of instructional design. I have been an Instructional Designer for over five years and have worked on a variety of projects in this field. My experience has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of how to create effective learning experiences that engage learners and help them reach their desired outcomes.

I understand that instructional design is more than just creating content; it’s about designing engaging and meaningful learning experiences. To do this, I use a variety of tools such as storyboarding, task analysis, and user testing to ensure that my designs are effective and meet the needs of the target audience. I also stay up-to-date on the latest trends in instructional design so that I can incorporate new ideas into my work.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for an instructional designer to have?

This question can help interviewers understand what you value in an instructional designer. They may ask this question to see if your skills match the job description and company culture. When preparing for this question, read through the job description and highlight any skills that are important for the role. Then, think about which of those skills you have and how they helped you succeed in previous roles.

Example: “As an instructional designer, I believe the most important skills to have are strong communication and collaboration abilities. Being able to effectively communicate with stakeholders, subject matter experts, and learners is essential for designing effective learning experiences. It’s also important to be able to collaborate with other designers and developers in order to create a cohesive product that meets the needs of all involved.

In addition, having a solid understanding of adult learning principles and how they can be applied to instruction is key. Knowing which strategies work best for different types of learners and being able to apply them appropriately will ensure that your designs are successful. Finally, having experience with various authoring tools, such as Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate, is critical for creating engaging e-learning content.”

3. How would you create an effective lesson plan?

Instructional designers need to be able to create effective lesson plans that are easy for students to understand. This question helps the interviewer assess your ability to plan lessons and develop curriculums. Use examples from past experience in creating lesson plans, including how you organized information and developed learning objectives.

Example: “When creating an effective lesson plan, I believe it is important to consider the needs of the learners and ensure that the content is engaging. To do this, I typically start by identifying the learning objectives for the lesson. This helps me determine what topics need to be covered and how much time should be allocated for each topic.

Next, I create a timeline for the lesson, breaking down the material into smaller chunks. This makes it easier for the learner to process the information and allows them to focus on one concept at a time. As part of the timeline, I also include activities or assessments that will help reinforce the concepts being taught.

Lastly, I make sure to provide feedback throughout the lesson so that the learners can track their progress. This could be in the form of questions, quizzes, or even discussion boards. By providing feedback, learners are able to understand where they stand with the material and identify any areas where they may need additional support.”

4. What is your experience with using technology in education?

Instructional designers use technology to create engaging learning experiences for students. Employers ask this question to learn about your experience with instructional design and how you incorporate technology into the process. Use your answer to share what types of software you’ve used in the past, as well as any specific projects you’ve worked on that involved using technology in education.

Example: “I have extensive experience using technology in education. I have used a variety of different tools and platforms to create engaging and interactive learning experiences for my students. For example, I have created online courses with video tutorials, quizzes, and other interactive elements. I have also designed virtual classrooms where students can interact with each other and the instructor in real-time. Finally, I have worked with various software programs such as Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office to develop multimedia presentations and documents that enhance student engagement. My goal is always to find ways to use technology to make learning more interesting and effective for all types of learners.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to work with a difficult client or subject matter expert.

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to work with challenging personalities. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of how you managed the situation or what strategies you used to improve your relationship with the client or expert.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to work with a difficult client on an instructional design project. The client was very demanding and had specific expectations that were not always realistic or achievable. Despite this, I worked hard to understand their needs and develop a solution that met both our goals.

To do this, I took extra time to listen to the client’s concerns and ask questions to better understand their objectives. I also provided them with multiple options for how we could approach the project, allowing them to make informed decisions about which direction they wanted to take. Finally, I kept open lines of communication throughout the process so that any changes in scope or timeline could be discussed and agreed upon quickly.”

6. If hired, what would be your first steps in learning about our company and its goals?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your research and planning skills. They want to know how you will use the information they share with you to create a plan for designing an effective learning experience for their employees. In your answer, explain that you would first do some background research on the company’s history, values and goals. You would also talk to managers or other key stakeholders to understand what they hope to achieve through training initiatives.

Example: “If I am hired as an Instructional Designer, my first steps would be to learn about the company and its goals. To do this, I would start by researching the company’s website and reading through any available documents such as annual reports or mission statements. This will give me a good overview of the company’s history, values, and objectives.

I would then reach out to key stakeholders within the organization to gain further insight into their vision for instructional design and how it fits into the overall business strategy. Finally, I would review any existing materials related to instruction design, such as training manuals, e-learning courses, and other educational resources. By understanding the current state of the company’s instructional design efforts, I can better identify areas for improvement and create strategies that align with the company’s goals.”

7. What would you do if you were given a budget but not given specific guidelines on how to spend it?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. Use examples from past experiences where you had a budget but were not given specific guidelines on how to spend it.

Example: “If I were given a budget but not specific guidelines on how to spend it, the first thing I would do is assess what resources are needed for the project. This could include materials, technology, and personnel. Once I have identified these needs, I can then create a plan that outlines how to best utilize the budget in order to meet the goals of the project.

I would also consult with stakeholders to ensure that their input is taken into account when making decisions about how to allocate the budget. It’s important to consider both short-term and long-term objectives when deciding how to use the funds. Finally, I would track spending closely throughout the duration of the project to make sure that the budget is being used efficiently and effectively.”

8. How well do you work under pressure?

Instructional designers often work under tight deadlines. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the pressure of working on a project with a short timeline. In your answer, share how well you manage time and stress. Explain that you are organized and able to meet deadlines. Show them that you have experience managing projects with strict timelines.

Example: “I am an experienced Instructional Designer who is comfortable working under pressure. I have worked on tight deadlines in the past and understand how to prioritize tasks effectively to meet them. I’m also able to stay organized and focused when faced with a challenging situation.

When I’m presented with a difficult task, I take a step back and analyze it from all angles before taking action. This helps me to identify potential problems or areas of improvement that can help me work more efficiently. I’m also not afraid to ask for help if needed.”

9. Do you have any experience creating virtual reality experiences?

Instructional designers often use virtual reality to create immersive learning experiences for students. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary skills to succeed in their role. If you do not have any experience creating VR, consider taking a course or doing some research on how to develop these types of experiences.

Example: “Yes, I have experience creating virtual reality experiences. In my current role as an Instructional Designer, I have been responsible for developing a variety of VR projects. My most recent project was to create a virtual tour of a museum exhibit. I worked with the client to determine their goals and objectives, then developed a storyboard that outlined the user journey. From there, I created 3D models of the environment and objects, wrote scripts for interactive elements, and tested the experience in multiple platforms. The end result was a successful virtual tour that allowed users to explore the exhibit from anywhere. This experience has given me the skills necessary to create engaging and immersive virtual reality experiences.”

10. When working with subject matter experts, how do you ensure that they understand the importance of clear communication?

Instructional designers often work with subject matter experts to create effective learning materials. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your collaboration skills and how you can help others be successful in their roles. In your answer, explain a specific situation where you helped someone communicate clearly.

Example: “When working with subject matter experts, communication is key. I believe that the most important thing is to create a collaborative environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions. To ensure clear communication, I make sure to listen carefully to what they have to say and ask questions when needed. I also provide feedback on their ideas in order to help them refine their thoughts and present them more effectively. Finally, I emphasize the importance of using simple language that can be easily understood by all stakeholders involved. By taking these steps, I am able to ensure that the subject matter experts understand the importance of clear communication.”

11. We want to improve our customer service staff’s ability to answer common questions. What would you do to help our employees learn common questions and answers?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you would apply your instructional design skills to improve an organization’s customer service. Use examples from previous experience or explain what you would do if you didn’t have any prior experience.

Example: “I understand the importance of customer service staff being able to answer common questions quickly and accurately. As an Instructional Designer, I would approach this challenge in a few ways.

Firstly, I would create an interactive learning module that covers the most commonly asked questions. This module could be designed as a game or quiz format, allowing employees to learn through engaging activities rather than just reading text. It could also include scenarios where employees can practice responding to customers with the correct answers.

Secondly, I would develop a reference guide for employees to refer to when they need help answering questions. This guide should contain all the necessary information about each question and its corresponding answer. The guide should also have visuals such as diagrams and flowcharts to make it easier for employees to find the right answer quickly.

Lastly, I would provide ongoing support and feedback to ensure that employees are retaining the knowledge they’ve acquired. Regular check-ins and assessments will allow me to track their progress and identify any areas that need improvement.”

12. Describe your process for creating a learning path.

An interviewer may ask this question to understand how you plan and organize your work. Your answer can show an interviewer that you have a process for organizing your tasks, which can help them see how you might fit into their organization. Consider describing the steps you take when planning a learning path and how you prioritize your time and resources.

Example: “My process for creating a learning path begins with understanding the objectives of the course. I work closely with stakeholders to ensure that the desired outcomes are clear and achievable. Once the objectives have been established, I develop an instructional strategy that outlines how the content will be delivered and what activities learners should complete in order to reach their goals.

Next, I create a storyboard that details each step of the learning journey. This includes selecting appropriate media, designing engaging activities, and crafting meaningful assessments. During this stage, I also consider the best way to present the material so it is easily understood by all learners. Finally, I review the entire learning path to make sure it meets the objectives and provides a positive learning experience.”

13. What makes a good lesson plan?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching philosophy. They want to know how you plan lessons and what makes them effective for students. Use your answer to explain the steps you take when creating a lesson plan, including any techniques or strategies that help you create an engaging learning experience.

Example: “A good lesson plan is one that meets the needs of the learners. It should be well-structured, organized and easy to follow. The objectives should be clearly stated, so that learners know what they are expected to learn from the lesson.

The content should be relevant to the topic and appropriate for the level of the learners. It should also include activities that engage learners and allow them to practice and apply their knowledge. Finally, it should provide assessment opportunities throughout the lesson, so that learners can measure their progress and understanding.

As an Instructional Designer, I understand the importance of creating effective lesson plans. I have experience in designing lessons that meet the needs of the learners while engaging them in meaningful learning experiences. My goal is always to create a positive learning environment where learners can reach their full potential.”

14. Which learning theories do you most closely identify with and why?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of learning theories and how they can be applied in instructional design. You should identify a few that you are familiar with, explain why you chose them and provide examples of how you have used them in the past.

Example: “I most closely identify with the constructivist learning theory. This theory is based on the idea that learners are actively engaged in constructing their own knowledge through experience and reflection. I believe this approach to learning is effective because it allows for individualized instruction, which encourages students to take ownership of their learning process. It also recognizes the importance of prior knowledge and experiences when constructing new understanding.

I have had success using a variety of instructional strategies that align with constructivism, such as problem-based learning, inquiry-based learning, and project-based learning. These approaches allow me to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences that promote active participation from my learners. Furthermore, they provide an opportunity for learners to explore real-world problems and draw upon their existing knowledge to develop solutions.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of creating an engaging learning experience?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand your approach to instructional design. Your answer can show the interviewer how you prioritize different aspects of a learning experience and what you think is most important in creating an effective course or program.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of creating an engaging learning experience is to ensure that the content is relevant and meaningful to the learners. This means understanding the needs of the audience, their level of knowledge, and what they need to learn in order to reach their goals. Once this has been established, I use a variety of instructional strategies such as interactive activities, simulations, case studies, and storytelling to create an immersive learning environment. By providing multiple opportunities for practice and feedback, I can ensure that learners are engaged and motivated throughout the course. Finally, I strive to make sure that each lesson is tailored to the individual learner so that they can have a personalized learning experience.”

16. How often do you think instructional designers should update their skills and knowledge?

This question can help interviewers understand your commitment to continuous learning and development. Your answer should show that you are willing to invest in yourself by keeping up with the latest trends in instructional design. You can also use this opportunity to share any certifications or training programs you’ve completed recently.

Example: “As an Instructional Designer, I believe it is important to stay current on the latest trends and best practices in instructional design. This means that I am constantly updating my skills and knowledge by attending workshops, conferences, webinars, and other professional development opportunities. I also read industry publications and blogs, as well as keeping up with new technology and tools. By doing this, I am able to ensure that I have the most up-to-date information available to me when creating effective learning experiences for my clients.

In addition, I strive to keep up with changes in the field of instructional design. For example, if a new methodology or tool becomes popular, I will take the time to learn about it so that I can incorporate it into my work. Finally, I make sure to network with other professionals in the field to stay abreast of any new developments or ideas. All of these activities help me remain an expert in the field of instructional design.”

17. There is a new learning theory that could dramatically improve the effectiveness of your designs. How would you learn about it and integrate it into your work?

Instructional designers must be open to new learning theories and methods. They should also have the ability to learn about them quickly and integrate them into their work. This question helps employers determine if you are willing to adapt your designs as needed. In your answer, explain that you would research this theory online or in a book. You can also mention that you would ask colleagues for recommendations on how to learn more about it.

Example: “I am an experienced Instructional Designer and I understand the importance of staying up to date on new learning theories. When I come across a new theory that could potentially improve my designs, I take the time to research it thoroughly. This includes reading articles, attending webinars or conferences, and talking with experts in the field. Once I have a good understanding of the theory, I then look for ways to integrate it into my work. I use what I’ve learned to create more effective instructional materials that meet the needs of learners. I also make sure to keep track of any changes in the industry so that I can continue to stay ahead of the curve.”

18. What techniques do you use to ensure that learners retain information?

Instructional designers must be able to create courses that are effective and engaging. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience with different learning techniques. In your answer, share two or three methods you use to make sure learners retain information from the course. Explain why these strategies work well.

Example: “As an Instructional Designer, I understand that the goal of any learning experience is to ensure learners retain information. To achieve this, I use a variety of techniques.

Firstly, I focus on creating engaging content that captures and holds the learner’s attention. This includes using visuals such as diagrams, videos, and infographics to illustrate concepts. Secondly, I employ active learning strategies such as simulations, case studies, and role-playing activities to help learners apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Finally, I utilize spaced repetition and retrieval practice to reinforce key concepts and ensure long-term retention.”

19. Describe a successful project you have worked on and how it achieved its goals.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience as an instructional designer. They want to know how you plan and execute projects that meet the needs of clients or employers. In your answer, try to describe a project you worked on in which you met all of its goals.

Example: “I recently worked on a project for a large organization that was focused on improving the onboarding process of new employees. The goal of this project was to reduce the amount of time it took for new hires to become fully productive members of the team.

To achieve this goal, I designed an online training program that included interactive modules, videos, and quizzes. This allowed new hires to learn at their own pace and gain a better understanding of the company’s culture and processes. In addition, I created job aids and reference materials that could be accessed quickly when needed.

The project was successful in achieving its goals. After implementation, the average time for new hires to become productive decreased by 25%. Furthermore, employee satisfaction with the onboarding process increased significantly. Finally, the cost savings associated with the project were substantial, as the online training program eliminated the need for expensive classroom-based instruction.”

20. How would you use data to identify areas for improvement in our training programs?

The interviewer may ask you this question to gauge your analytical skills and how you use data to improve training programs. Use examples from previous roles where you used data to identify areas for improvement in a training program or process.

Example: “Data is a powerful tool for identifying areas of improvement in training programs. As an Instructional Designer, I would use data to gain insights into how learners are engaging with the content and identify any gaps or weaknesses in the program. For example, I could analyze learner feedback surveys to understand what topics they found most difficult, or review completion rates to determine which sections were not being understood.

I could also look at usage analytics such as page views and time spent on each page to get an idea of where learners may be getting stuck. This information can then be used to make informed decisions about changes that need to be made to improve the overall effectiveness of the training program. Finally, I could track learner performance over time to measure the impact of any changes that have been implemented.”

21. Tell us about your experience with creating assessments and quizzes.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience with assessment design and how you use it in the classroom. Use your answer to highlight any specific skills or techniques that you’ve used in the past, such as creating assessments that are both challenging and engaging for students.

Example: “I have extensive experience creating assessments and quizzes for a variety of learning objectives. I am well-versed in the principles of formative and summative assessment, including how to design effective questions that accurately measure student understanding. My approach is to create meaningful assessments that are engaging and relevant to the learner.

When designing assessments, I take into consideration the context of the course material and ensure that my questions align with the intended learning outcomes. I also pay attention to the difficulty level of each question and make sure that it is appropriate for the target audience. Finally, I use data from previous assessments to inform future iterations and continuously improve the quality of the assessments.”

22. Do you have any experience developing interactive simulations?

Instructional designers often use simulations to help students learn complex concepts. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to create these types of learning experiences. In your answer, share a specific example of when you used simulations in your work. Explain what you did and how it helped improve the learning experience for students.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience developing interactive simulations. In my current role as an Instructional Designer, I have created a variety of simulations for different types of learners and learning objectives. For example, I recently developed a simulation to help students understand the concept of supply and demand in economics. The simulation was designed to be engaging and interactive, allowing students to explore the concept through a virtual marketplace.

I also have experience creating simulations that focus on soft skills such as communication and problem-solving. These simulations are often used to help employees develop their interpersonal skills while working in teams or with customers. My simulations feature realistic scenarios and provide feedback based on the user’s actions. This helps users learn from their mistakes and gain valuable insights into how they can improve their performance.”

23. What strategies do you use to stay organized when managing multiple projects?

Instructional designers often work on multiple projects at once, so employers ask this question to make sure you have strategies for staying organized. Use your answer to explain how you stay on top of all your tasks and responsibilities. Share a few tips that help you manage your time and prioritize your work.

Example: “I have developed several strategies to stay organized when managing multiple projects. First, I use a project management system such as Trello or Asana to keep track of tasks and deadlines. This allows me to easily view the progress of each project in one place. Second, I create a timeline for each project that includes milestones and due dates. This helps me prioritize my work and ensure that all tasks are completed on time. Finally, I communicate regularly with stakeholders to make sure everyone is on the same page and aware of any changes or updates. By following these strategies, I am able to effectively manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.”

24. How do you prioritize tasks when there are competing deadlines?

Instructional designers often have multiple projects they’re working on at once. An interviewer may ask this question to understand how you manage your time and ensure that all of your deadlines are met. Use your answer to highlight your organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines.

Example: “When I am faced with competing deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on the urgency of each one. First, I assess which task needs to be completed first in order to meet the deadline and then I break down that task into smaller steps so that I can complete it efficiently. After that, I move onto the next most urgent task and repeat the process until all tasks are completed. In addition, I also communicate regularly with stakeholders to ensure that they are aware of my progress and any potential delays. Finally, I use project management tools such as Trello or Asana to track my progress and stay organized. This helps me to stay focused and on top of all of my tasks while meeting tight deadlines.”

25. In what ways do you think instructional design has changed over the years?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of the field and how you’ve adapted to changes in technology. Your answer should include a few examples of how instructional design has changed over time, as well as what you think it will look like in the future.

Example: “Instructional design has changed significantly over the years. In the past, instructional designers focused primarily on creating content that was delivered in a traditional classroom setting. Nowadays, instructional design is much more dynamic and incorporates multiple delivery methods such as online courses, mobile learning, virtual reality, and augmented reality. Instructional designers now have to consider how best to deliver content across different platforms and devices while still ensuring that learners are able to understand and retain the material. Furthermore, instructional designers must also be aware of the latest trends in technology and incorporate them into their designs. Finally, instructional designers must also take into consideration the needs of the target audience when designing instruction. By taking all these factors into account, instructional designers can create engaging and effective learning experiences for their audiences.”